Millipedes have distinct characteristics that make them easy to recognize:

Appearance

Millipedes have long, segmented bodies with two pairs of legs per segment, giving them a “caterpillar-like” look. Their color ranges from brown to black, with a hard exoskeleton.

Size

Most millipedes are about 1-2 inches long, but some species can grow larger, especially in damp environments.

Behavior

These slow-moving pests curl into a coil when disturbed and release a mild odor as a defense mechanism. They are commonly found in basements, bathrooms, and areas with high moisture.

Millipedes are moisture-loving creatures that seek shelter, food, and damp conditions. Here’s what you need to know about their habits:

Nocturnal Activity

Millipedes are primarily active at night, seeking dark, moist areas during the day.

Attracted to Moisture

Heavy rains or increased humidity can drive millipedes indoors, as they seek a dry place to escape excessive moisture.

Foraging for Food

Millipedes primarily consume decaying plant matter, so they’re often found near gardens, compost piles, or basements with organic debris.

Seasonal Influx

Millipedes are most active during spring and fall and may migrate indoors during seasonal changes, especially when looking for warmth and shelter.

Earwigs are nocturnal and prefer dark, moist environments. During the day, they hide in small crevices, under rocks, and in mulch. They’re known to be scavengers, feeding on decaying plant material, insects, and occasionally, live plants. In homes, they often enter through cracks and gaps in search of shelter and food, especially during hot and dry weather.

Typical Earwig Habits Include:

• Hiding in moist areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens
• Feeding on a range of organic material and small insects.
• Attracted to homes with ample outdoor lighting, especially near doors and windows

Millipedes, unlike centipedes, are slow-moving scavengers rather than predators. They play a role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter, but they can become pests when they wander into human spaces.

Life Cycle

Millipedes lay eggs in moist soil, and their young resemble smaller versions of adults. They have a relatively long lifespan for an insect, with some living up to several years.

Moisture Dependence

Their thin exoskeleton makes them highly susceptible to dehydration, so they prefer moist areas to survive.

Population Surges

Millipede populations can explode in ideal conditions, leading to periodic invasions in both residential and commercial spaces.